Father David Hill - Rector
Before ordination Fr David was a secondary school teacher and before that a carpet salesman. Two careers which are a wonderful preparation for being a Priest. He has worked in Africa with the Mission to Seafarers and was also a Chaplain to the Forces serving in the Army Reserve. He loves sport and detective dramas. Along with his wife and sons he really enjoys travel. He is particularly fond of France and Italy. He loves cooking and parties but do not, under any circumstances, ask him to dance! |
Reverend Michael Turnbull - Deacon
Michael was ordained Deacon in June 2012. In addition to his work at St. John's he is a hospital chaplain in Hastings and Eastbourne. He is also chaplain to Police in East Sussex Michael is married to Josephine and together they have two children. He likes to relax by swimming in the sea and lakes, hill walking and bricklaying in the garden. Patina Blankson - Churchwarden
As a Churchwarden, she supports the Rector, represents the laity and ensures the proper running of the parish. She leads by example to encourage the parishioners in the practice of true religion promoting unity and peace among them. She enjoys the company of family and friends, likes walking, travelling and listening to music whilst relaxing. Ed Towner - Churchwarden
Lucy Wilkinson - Parish Administrator |
Father David has been the Rector of St John’s for more than ten years. He grew up in Norfolk but many of his ancestors were from Hastings and the local area. He is actively involved in many aspects of the life of the Borough and also serves as the Honorary Chaplain of St Michael's Hospice. FAther David believes that the Christian Faith must be inclusive and welcoming. He enjoys the mixture of formality and spontaneity which are present in the worship at St John's and in the life we share together as a community of Faith.
Born and brought up in n
Lucy is our Parish Administrator, providing administrative support to the Clergy and the Parochial Church Council, and organising bookings for the Church Hall. Lucy also works in a bookshop, where she has been since 2018 when she moved to Hastings.
In her spare time she's usually reading, but also loves walking in nature (especially with horses), watching Dr.Who, and visiting Cathedrals and National Trust sights. Lucy lives with her partner, Lily, and their cat, Minnie.
Alan Privett - Treasurer
Alan has lived in St Leonards for 35 years with his wife, Jenny Miller. They have two married daughters. He's had a busy and successful career as an opera director, and has been involved in various aspects of Hastings life, notably with the HastingsTrust.
He is currently a member of the PCC and the Treasurer for St John's.
Gabby Blankson - Sacristan
Gabby is our Sacristan- prepping the church for mass and keeping an eye on our stock. You can regularly catch her de-waxing candles or serving behind the altar during Sunday morning services! During the week, Gabby is a French teacher at a local secondary school in the Hastings area, where she has lived since she was first baptized at St. John's just over 30 years ago! When not teaching her love of French language and culture, Gabby enjoys reading, travelling and spending quality time with friends and family.
Katy Harper - Social Committee
Katy has been worshipping at St John's for 30 years. During that time, she has done a variety of things in the church and now runs a Crafty Club, organise the Sunday Coffee rota and helps manage the Church Hall. She is also part of the newly restarted Social Committee and they are planning all sorts of fun activities!